Domaine des Varinelles

The Domaine des Varinelles, located in the town of Varrains, is an old family property, four generations old, and currently is run by Claude and Laurent Daheuiller. They have recently made significant improvement in their equipment. They sell 1/3 in bulk and 2/3 in bottles.

Winery/Vineyards

The vineyard today covers 42 hectares (or 100 acres), whose 32 ha in Saumur Champigny. The vineyard is planted with Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc, including several well-known areas such as Les Petits Clos, Les Bonnezeaux, Le Clos Marconnet and Les Poyeux. The vines are 35 to 60 years old in average. The oldest were planted in 1900. The soil is clay-limestone.

On argilo-calcareous soil. All of the vines are grassed with integrated farming methods being used wherever possible. This delicate work is carried out by a young team, showing a great deal of respect for nature. Adjacent to the house, the air-conditioned wine warehouse contains stainless steel temperature controlled tanks with auto punching off the cap, in which the harvest arrives after passing through the sorting table. Maceration lasts between 15 and 30 days.